Fil-Am crowned princess at Rose Parade

PASADENA, Calif. – It’s an annual New Year ’s Day tradition in Southern California and despite near record low cold temperatures thousands camped out in the streets of Pasadena for the annual Tournament of Roses Parade.

Among the floats and celebration a Filipina American was honored during this year’s parade.

High school student Gabrielle Current was chosen to join the 126-year-old parade’s royal court.

“It’s such an honor,” said Current. “I grew up going to the Rose Parade all my life. I’ve lived in Pasadena since I was little so looking up to the girls, it was just an honor being called to the top 25. When I heard my name, when it was being called to the royal court it was such a dream come true and I loved every minute of it.”

The scholar student has modeled for Macy’s, Target and Pottery Barn but getting into the Rose Parade is not easy.

She had to compete with 800 other high school seniors in the Pasadena area.

Six princesses and one queen were chosen.

“You go through a round of four to five interviews and then judges are looking for poise confidence, how well you can carry yourself in public speaking ability, but also academic achievement,” said Current. “So they’re really looking for a well rounded girl to represent Pasadena.”

But it was well worth it and despite the freezing weather Current was all smiles during the festivities.

“We actually had pajamas, had layers, body warmers all over but you couldn’t really tell because we were all so excited so we weren’t focusing on the weather,” said Current.

Beauty runs in her family. Her mother was a former Mutya ng Pilipinas talent winner while her father was the Mr. Asia USA winner.

Current has yet to decide which college to go to but she plans to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.

She also plans to visit the Philippines.

She was recently honored by the Filipino community at a Fabulous Filipinas book launch.

You can contact Steve Angeles at steve_angeles@abs-cbn.com and follow him on Twitter @stevieangeles for more information.